Ganglion Cysts - children and young people

What is a ganglion cyst?

Ganglion cysts are the most common type of swelling in children and young people. They're most often seen in the wrist, fingers and hands. 

They are often self limiting, harmless and don't require treatment 

What is the cause? 

A ganglion cyst starts when the fluid from a joint or tendon collects and forms a jelly-filled sac beneath the skin. It’s not known why this happens but they can be common.

What are the symptoms? 

A swelling or lump appears. This may or may not be painful.

How is the diagnosis made? 

Ganglion cysts have a very distinct appearance and usually appear in common places. 

A ganglion on the back of the wrist is particularly common in older children and young adults  

What is the treatment? 

Most ganglion cysts can be safely left alone. Many will resolve spontaneously over time and cause no problems. 

If large and painful, then aspiration (removing the fluid from the ganglion with a needle and syringe) of the cyst may be recommended. This is usually done under local anaesthetic. This can reduce the size of the cyst, but it can still come back. 

Surgical excision is rarely indicated, as the scar can produce persistent pain and tenderness. The risk of surgery is general thought to outweigh any benefit. 

This information leaflet has been produced after an initial review of the literature and where there is a lack of evidence, a consensus of expert opinion is agreed, correct at time of publication.